North Sea Spot Market Remains Challenging

The North Sea spot market has improved during the second quarter of 2019, as a result of increased rig activity, said Viking Supply Ships.

However, the Norway-based supply shipping company expects that the overall market conditions will likely remain somewhat challenging.

According to Trond Myklebust, CEO and President of Viking Supply Ships, the rig activity in the North Sea is expected to see a modest increase during Q3, before softening slightly during the winter season.

The long-term trend within the offshore market is however positive, with a gradual recovery of the rig activity in the region. It is therefore expected that also the OSV segment will gradually improve.

The North Sea market has seen increased activity levels during the second quarter. As a result, fixture rates and utilization has improved compared to previous periods, he said.

During the first half of 2019, Viking Supply Ships AB has re-activated the previously laid-up Loke Viking, as a result of obtaining a medium term contract in the Pechora Sea.

"As a result, all four vessels which are described as core fleet of the Group are now in operation. Further The Group has been successful in obtaining a shorter term contract for two of the vessels during the quarter, and as a result Magne Viking has been the only vessel in the Group operating in the North Sea spot market for the majority of the period, Myklebust said.